Deadly Oropouche virus found in UK for first time after sweeping through Europe
A mysterious "sloth virus" has been detected in the UK for the first time after spreading across Europe.
The latest statistics, released today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), revealed three cases of Oropouche virus among travellers returning to the UK.
It's the first time the Oropouche virus has been found in the UK, with all instances linked to journeys to Brazil. Latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) also show a surge in travel-related chikungunya infections throughout England.
Between January and June 2025, 73 cases were recorded - a sharp rise from the 27 cases during the same timeframe in 2024, marking the highest tally ever documented for this period. It comes after Oropouche quietly spread across the continent, and could be more dangerous than first feared.
Chikungunya is a mosquito-transmitted disease connected to international travel, presenting symptoms such as sudden fever typically coupled with joint discomfort.
Of the 73 chikungunya cases, the majority reported travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius, linked with ongoing local outbreaks in countries in the Indian Ocean region. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London.
Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: "Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. Thankfully symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer.
"It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk. Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions."
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What is Oropouche virus?
Oropouche virus (OROV) is spread predominantly by midge bites rather than mosquito bites. The primary type of midge responsible for the outbreak in the Americas is not seen in the UK and Europe. If a person becomes unwell with symptoms such as high fever, chills, headache, joint pain and muscle aches following travel to affected areas, they should seek urgent medical advice.
How does the virus spread?
There has been a rise in Oropouche virus infections globally since 2024, especially in multiple countries in South America, Central America and the Caribbean, with Brazil reporting the largest outbreaks. Due to the increase in cases, and some recent concerns regarding Oropouche virus infection during pregnancy, pregnant travellers should take particular care.
What are the symptoms of Oropouche?
Symptoms include a sudden onset of fever usually accompanied by joint pain. While most people recover fully within 1 to 2 weeks, the joint pain can persist for months or even years in some cases, with up to 12% of patients still experiencing discomfort 3 years after infection. Serious complications are uncommon, but very rarely the disease can be fatal, particularly in the very young, older individuals and those with other underlying illnesses.
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